High intensity interval training aka HIIT , is a cardio workout that focuses on short bursts of intense movement. A typical HIIT session would consist of 1 minute of high intensity exercise such as a sprint followed directly by a minute of rest or low activity (repeated). HIIT sessions are short and take usually between 5 to 30 minutes. HIIT sessions are not recommended for beginners as they are very taxing on the body’s muscular and respiratory systems.
Pros of HIIT : Time efficient/short, burns fat , increases metabolism and can be done anywhere.
Cons of HIIT: Not suitable for beginners (someone who has trained under a year), dizziness from blood pressure dropping and elevating repeatedly, muscle soreness and injuries.
Is HIIT training better than moderate (steady state) cardio for fat loss ? Dr Kyle Meyer stated that one isn't better than the other and that the main difference was reliant upon the preference and time demand of the person. Whether you do a 20m HIIT session or a 45m moderate cardio session such as walking, roughly the same amount of fat will be burnt at the end. Slow and steady wins the race.
TIP: For a fitness beginner, I would recommend moderate cardio due to the gentler nature of the exercise whilst achieving the same fat burning results. This can be a walk or gentle swim or any activity that doesn't leave you panting for breath. HIIT workouts are better suited for fitness intermediates and people who train in boxing, sprinting and certain gymnastics.
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